State of emergency called throughout New Jersey

State Senate President Steve Sweeney, who is filling in as Acting Governor while Gov. Chris Christie is out of state, has issued a state of emergency for the entire state due to blizzard conditions this evening.

According to the executive order issued by Sweeney, the storm is expected to produce from eight to 20 inches of snow with forecasts of significantly higher snowfall accumulations in some locations. High winds with gusts of 35 to 45 miles per hour, tidal and coastal flooding, blizzard conditions and snow drifts will all impede the flow of traffic through the state. In addition, the storm is expected to produce widespread power outages.

Sweeney has empowered the State Director of Emergency Management to activate any elements of the State Emergency Operations Plan that he deems necessary to safeguard the public.

The State Police will assume total control of the state’s roadways and the State Director of Emergency Management has the power to evacuate any residents who are in areas that present a danger to their well-being.

The order takes place immediately and will remain in effect until a state of emergency no longer exists.